Butler signs for Connacht

Editor

Brumbies back-rower Jarrad Butler has signed a contract with Irish province Connacht and will join them at the end of Super Rugby 2017.

Butler has put pen to paper on a deal with the PRO12 outfit and will leave the Brumbies at the end of this season. He has won over 50 Brumbies caps and over 70 Super Rugby appearances in all.

“I am extremely excited to be given this opportunity to join Connacht,” Butler commented. “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time at the Brumbies, however this new set of challenges on the other side of the world is something that I can’t wait to embrace.

“I look forward to being a part of this proud club, to meeting the supportive fans and community, and most importantly doing everything I can to help Connacht be successful.

“I’d like to thank the whole team of Brumbies staff, coaches, and especially the players for their support, friendships, and lasting memories during my time in Canberra. You’ve made these last four years the best of my life.

“Also, I want to thank the Brumbies fans and Canberra rugby community. The rugby mad fans I’ve meet and spoken to in this city have made my time here so much more special and I sincerely thank you for that.”

Brumbies CEO Phil Thomson sent Butler a departing message thanking him for his contribution to the team during his spell with the club.

“We would like to thank Jarrad for the wonderful contribution he has made whilst here. He will remain part of the Brumbies family,” Thomson said.

“Jarrad became a well-respected member of the team, as well as a favourite with the crowd. He departs for Ireland with our best wishes and in the hope that he has a successful future.”

Commenting on their latest player signing, Connacht Rugby CEO Willie Ruane said: “We’re delighted to be signing someone of Jarrad’s rugby ability and believe he will be a big addition to our squad.

“As a back-rower who is equally adept in all three positions, he brings a huge amount of versatility to the team. He is an extremely talented player who has been on the Wallabies’ radar for some time.

“At a young age, Jarrad has already gained a great deal of experience as a leader in a highly professional environment and we look forward to welcoming him to Connacht Rugby at the conclusion of the Super Rugby season.”